Celebrating 50 years at Penshurst Library

On Forest Road beside Olds Park sits an unassuming building that has connected with so many families and helped people feel at home. It is Penshurst Library and this year, Georges River Council celebrates 50 years.

We had been waiting to celebrate this special milestone and kicked off the events with a Family Fun Day onsite. So many locals drove out to Penshurst Library that day. We had fun activities including family entertainment, a petting zoo and a story time session delivered by our librarians that showed everyone the joy of learning to read.

“The librarians did a fantastic job, and their story time was the best we have been to – from the props they had created to the involvement of the children. And it was great to see kids of all ages get up and dance along with the librarians to songs I hadn’t heard before!”

Penshurst Library member The library has created relationships and connections over the years with regular craft workshops, book groups and groups to nurture the passion for writing. Local author, Frank Jordan shared how the Georges River LGA inspired scenes from his own crime-fiction novel series.

On display throughout the building were photos from the library’s photo album. In the photographs, locals found themselves as a child and recognised familiar faces.

There was also a Wall of Thanks where visitors could share their appreciation. A long-time customer wrote how after a smile and warm welcome, Penshurst Library became their second home. She reflected about being a stay-at-home mother who didn’t know anyone and bringing her baby to a story time session. Over the years her family grew up with the library and now she continues to bring her grandchildren. “There must be something magical about your library and its books, as the grandchildren love nothing more than being able to read. Through life’s ups and downs you have been a constant friendly presence… I’m so very glad you gave me a few moments of your time all those years ago and that [the library] has been woven into the fabric of my life forever.”

These stories of deep connection spanning over decades continued to be shared at the community morning tea. Some members at the event shared how they were there when Penshurst Library first opened and continue to regularly visit the library to this day! The current branch librarian recollected being brought to the library with her dad when she was eight years old.

“I have fond memories visiting Penshurst Library with my father as a child not long after it opened in 1972. Dad was the one who gifted me with a thirst for knowledge and reading and our regular library visits were probably a big reason why I became a librarian. We were so lucky to have access to such a wonderful local library where I could learn all about ancient history and escape to faraway places. Now 50 years later I am the Penshurst Branch Librarian, in a way I feel like I’ve come home.”

Penshurst Library, Branch Librarian

Thank you to all our staff and members – old and new – who have helped make this wonderful library community.

Community members at Penshurst Library 50th anniversary